Garmin Fenix 8 Pro: Leave Your Phone Behind (Almost)
▼ Summary
– Garmin’s new Fenix 8 Pro smartwatches add cellular and satellite connectivity via InReach tech, starting at $1,199.99.
– These watches feature a MicroLED display option with 4,500 nits brightness, priced at $1,999.99 for the 51mm size.
– Connectivity allows phone-free use for sending voice messages, location sharing, and SOS requests, but requires a subscription starting at $7.99/month.
– The cellular and satellite features have limitations: they use LTE-M networks, lack traditional calling/SMS, and coverage is not available in all countries.
– This move helps Garmin compete with rivals like Apple and Samsung by addressing a previous gap in smartwatch connectivity offerings.
Garmin has unveiled its latest flagship smartwatch series, the Fenix 8 Pro, introducing cellular and satellite connectivity through the company’s InReach technology. This significant upgrade allows users to leave their phones behind in many situations, though with some important limitations. Alongside connectivity enhancements, the series also debuts a new MicroLED display option capable of reaching an impressive 4,500 nits of brightness, making it one of the brightest screens available on a wearable device. Pricing starts at $1,199.99, with the premium MicroLED model reaching $1,999.99.
The headline feature is undoubtedly the addition of both cellular and satellite support, which enables communication and location sharing without a paired smartphone. However, these functions operate over LTE-M networks, meaning the watch lacks a traditional phone number and cannot make standard voice calls or send SMS messages. Instead, users can communicate with other Fenix 8 Pro owners or individuals who have installed the Garmin Messenger app. This app supports 30-second voice messages, LiveTrack location sharing, and access to real-time weather updates.
Satellite connectivity further extends these capabilities, allowing users to send and receive text messages and location check-ins even in remote areas. In emergency situations, SOS requests can be transmitted via either cellular or satellite networks through the Garmin Response center, which coordinates with local emergency services and designated contacts. It’s important to note that these features require an active subscription, starting at $7.99 per month. New Fenix 8 Pro buyers will have the InReach activation fee waived and receive a 30-day free trial, though network availability varies by region.
For years, Garmin has trailed competitors like Apple and Samsung in offering standalone connectivity, despite leading in areas like battery life, rugged design, and advanced training metrics. The Fenix 8 Pro represents a strategic step toward closing that gap, leveraging Garmin’s existing InReach infrastructure rather than negotiating complex carrier partnerships. This approach allows the company to provide a viable, if not fully seamless, phone-free experience for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.
On the hardware front, the Fenix 8 Pro series is offered in 47mm and 51mm case sizes. The standard OLED models deliver an estimated 27 days of battery life, with prices set at $1,199.99 and $1,299.99 respectively. The high-end MicroLED version, exclusive to the 51mm size, offers up to 10 days of battery and carries a $1,999.99 price tag. All models are scheduled to begin shipping on September 8th.
(Source: The Verge)
